For many retirees, the ultimate dream isn’t just about leaving the workforce—it’s about gaining the freedom to explore. Whether it’s visiting family, relaxing at a vacation home, or embarking on new adventures, travel is often at the heart of retirement plans. But before setting off, it’s important to consider one often-overlooked detail: Medicare coverage while traveling.
Health insurance is a critical consideration for any traveler, but it’s especially important for retirees. As we age, the risk of chronic conditions, fall-related injuries, and even infectious diseases increases. Medicare coverage can be complex—it may not always apply outside of a retiree’s home state, and it rarely covers international medical expenses. That’s why many retired travelers benefit from supplemental travel medical insurance. [1]
If you’re relying on Medicare, knowing the coverage rules, exclusions, and additional options before your next trip can help ensure peace of mind on your journey.
Are You Covered by Medicare When Traveling?
Medicare coverage while traveling isn’t always straightforward—it depends on your plan and where you go. While some coverage is guaranteed within the U.S. and its territories, the specifics can vary based on the type of Medicare plan you have and the care you may need. [2]
If you’re enrolled in Original Medicare (traditional Medicare), you can receive care anywhere in the country as long as the provider accepts Medicare. This includes specialists, surgeons, psychiatrists, and other medical services—from hospice and nursing home care to screenings and medical transport.
Medicare Advantage plans, on the other hand, typically only cover emergency or urgent care while traveling. Some plans may allow out-of-network visits for non-emergency care but often with higher costs—or no coverage at all, leading to unexpected bills.
The good news? Most healthcare providers in the U.S. and its territories accept Medicare. With Original Medicare, you may even choose to have surgery or receive treatments in another state with family nearby for support. Whether you're driving the Pacific Coast Highway, exploring National Parks, or attending your niece’s waterfront wedding in Charleston, your coverage is unlikely to be a major concern.
Still, before heading out, it’s wise to plan ahead. Where can you refill a prescription if you extend your trip? Where’s the nearest urgent care in case of an unexpected illness? Understanding where and how your Medicare coverage applies can help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure you get the care you need while traveling.
Does Medicare Cover Foreign Travel?
In most cases, no—Medicare does not provide coverage outside the United States.
Medicare is a federally administered program, and its funding does not extend internationally. That means if your bucket list includes cruising the Greek Isles, trekking Machu Picchu, touring Tuscany, or going on an African safari, Medicare won’t cover any medical needs that arise—even in an emergency.
There are a few rare exceptions. Medicare may cover emergency care and hospitalization outside the U.S. and its territories, but only in very specific situations related to border proximity—not just the severity of the emergency. For example, you could be covered if the nearest hospital is in Canada or Mexico, or if you experience a medical emergency while on a cruise ship in international waters. Coverage varies by plan, and these exceptions are meant for urgent, unexpected situations—not routine care. Also, if you remain outside the U.S. for more than six months, you may be disenrolled from Medicare. [3,4]
Without travel insurance or the ability to pay upfront, foreign hospitals may refuse treatment, except in life-threatening emergencies. Even in countries with universal healthcare, government-funded services are typically reserved for citizens and legal residents, meaning tourists are often required to pay out-of-pocket. [5]
Many insurance providers offer short-term travel policies that cover international healthcare costs. The U.S. State Department even recommends that older travelers secure coverage that includes emergency medical, dental, and evacuation services. [6]
If you’re planning to travel beyond U.S. borders, it’s time to start exploring additional insurance options.
Why Consider Supplemental Coverage for International Travel?
Since Medicare doesn’t cover retirees while traveling abroad, it’s important to explore additional options to protect yourself. That’s where Medigap insurance can be a valuable solution for retirees with wanderlust. [7]
Medigap, also known as Medicare Supplement insurance, helps fill coverage gaps in Original Medicare—including emergency medical care outside the U.S. Most current Medigap plans (C, D, F, G, M, and N) cover 80% of emergency medical expenses abroad after a $250 deductible, with a lifetime maximum of $50,000. This coverage applies to emergencies that occur within the first 60 days of your trip, offering essential financial protection when Medicare falls short. [8]
For international travelers, this supplemental coverage provides peace of mind. Without it, you could face steep out-of-pocket costs for emergency care in foreign countries, which could significantly impact your retirement savings. While Medigap requires a monthly premium in addition to your Medicare Part B premium, the cost is small compared to the financial risk of traveling without coverage.
When purchasing a Medigap policy, be sure to choose an insurance provider licensed in your state. Also, note that Medigap policies cannot be used with Medicare Advantage plans.
Should You Consider Travel Insurance?
Even with Medicare and supplemental coverage, a comprehensive travel insurance policy can provide additional protection—especially for international trips. Travel insurance helps cover expenses that Medicare, Medigap, and Medicare Advantage plans often don’t, including emergency medical care, evacuations, and trip cancellations.
A quality travel insurance policy typically includes:
Emergency medical coverage – Covers unexpected illnesses or injuries abroad, often beyond what Medigap provides.
Medical evacuation and repatriation – Helps cover transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility or back home if needed.
Trip cancellation and interruption – Reimburses non-refundable expenses if illness, injury, or other covered reasons disrupt your travel plans.
Lost luggage, delays, and other travel mishaps – Provides financial relief for unexpected travel inconveniences.
While Medigap policies cover 80% of emergency medical care abroad (after a deductible), they have a $50,000 lifetime limit and do not include medical evacuation. A travel insurance policy can help fill these gaps, ensuring you’re fully covered in case of a serious medical emergency. [8]
When selecting a policy, look for one that includes at least $100,000 in medical coverage and $250,000 or more for medical evacuation, especially if traveling to remote locations. Be sure to compare policies based on your destination, trip length, and health needs.
Healthcare emergencies can be unpredictable, but the right travel insurance can help protect both your health and your finances—so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
Travel with Confidence in Retirement
Many retirees assume Medicare provides healthcare coverage abroad—but it doesn’t. Planning ahead gives you the time to understand policy limitations, secure supplemental coverage, or budget for potential medical expenses. Taking these steps can help you travel with confidence, knowing you’re financially prepared for the unexpected.
Retirement is the time to explore, not to worry about medical bills derailing your plans. Before you pack your bags, consult your financial advisor to ensure your coverage aligns with your travel goals. We’re here to help you navigate your options so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
Russell D. Rivera, CFA, CFP®, is the Founder and President of Voice Wealth Management, an independent financial services firm serving professionals, entrepreneurs, and families in New York City and beyond. Focusing on helping clients make informed decisions about saving, investing, and financial planning, Russell is committed to providing a customized approach that reflects each client’s unique priorities and experiences.
Sources:
1. https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/older-adults
3. https://www.aarp.org/health/medicare-qa-tool/does-medicare-cover-me-outside-the-us/
4. https://www.ncoa.org/article/does-medicare-cover-you-anywhere/
5. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/insurance
7. https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-is-medigap/
8. https://www.ncoa.org/article/does-medicare-cover-you-anywhere/
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